Every year, teacher’s work hard to make sure their students walk out of their classroom smarter than when they entered it. Often, they put their all into each day and even empty out their wallets to ensure their students have the best learning materials. So, on Teacher Appreciation Day, May 9, you may want to take some time to show your appreciation for the teachers in your life. This doesn’t mean you have to spend a small fortune on them though as there are lots of great ways to say thank you that cost next to nothing. So, check out these ten tips and see if there’s anything that will make the teacher in your life feel loved.

1. Volunteer
One of the best things you can do for a teacher is lend your services to them. It doesn’t matter if you’re skilled in education as most teachers could always use a pair of hands around the classroom. Try asking your teacher if there is anything you can do to make their job a little easier. Sometimes, teachers need someone to help out with homework or to simply chaperon a class activity. Other times, teachers will ask for baked good or other supplies to help make the students happier in the classroom. No matter what you choose to do the teachers in your life are sure to be thankful for the help, especially since they are often overwhelmed and need a moment to breathe.

2. Bring Coffee
Believe it or not, simply bringing your teacher a cup of coffee on Teacher Day may be the key to her heart. You may want to hint around to see if they have a special order of coffee before the big day, especially if you plan on going to a chain to pick up the coffee. If you want to save on some money, then simply brew some coffee at home and place it in a disposable cup, or buy your teacher a special cup they can treasure for years to come. You can even keep it simple by buying a bag of coffee and dressing it up as a gift. No matter what you choose to do, most teachers will be pleased by the extra jolt of caffeine that will help them get through the day.

3. Donate Supplies
Most teachers end up having to spend their hard earned money on the supplies that parents don’t send on the first day of school or those not budgeted for their classroom. This can really leave them in a bind, especially when they don’t want their students to suffer because of lack of funding. This Teacher’s Day, you may want to find out what your teacher typically needs more of in the classroom and bring it in. Since it is so late in the year, your student might not end up using it, but your donation will help out students in the future as well as your teacher. Of course, items don’t have to be brand new either. You can even turn in used crayons, pencils and so on. You may even make a pledge to donate what is left of your child’s school supplies when the school year ends. With the extra items in stock, the teacher might not have to worry about shopping for a little while.

4. DIY Bouquet
Bouquets can be a little pricey in the month of May, but that shouldn’t stop you from giving your teacher the flowers he or she deserves on Teacher’s Day. You can easily work up your own bouquet from scratch. For instance, you can have your student pick a batch of flowers from your garden outside. Even dandelions will make a great option for most teachers, so if you don’t have roses or tulips growing don’t stress out. If you don’t want to go the natural way, then pull out your craft supplies. You can easily come up with a colorful bouquet of a variety of flowers made out of paper or silk, which is certain to not only make your teacher’s day, but also impress them.

5. DIY Gift Basket
Gift baskets are a great way to show you care about someone, so you might want to consider building one up for the teacher in your life. You can easily make a basket and fill it with junk food that your teacher may want to eat during her breaks at school. If you’re not sure what to pack then you can always make it teacher oriented. That is, fill it with a couple apples, some pencils, chalk and so on. This should make your teacher happy and she will love the extra thought put into it. Some stores will even sell specific items for Teacher’s Day, so you might want to grab a pin, patch or mug to add into the mix.

6. Present an Award
A lot of teachers don’t get the appreciation they deserve day in and day out. So, for Teacher’s Day you may want to present them with an award to show them just how much of a difference they have made in your student’s life. There are many companies that will make up customized plaques or ribbons at a fair price. These can last for years and will help boost your teacher’s confidence. Of course, if you don’t have the money to spend on one of these items then there are lots of customizable awards that you can print out online. All you have to do is fill in the information for your teacher and print it out. If you want to go the extra mile then add a picture frame to the mix to make it look official. Of course, if you really want to make your teacher feel special, add in a specific reason for the award, so they will know just where they are doing their best quality work.

7. Kids’ Craft
Most teachers, especially those who work with younger children, love getting artwork from their students. There is something special about a child putting a little love into a project made just for you. So, for Teacher’s Day, you may want to ask your student to sit down and make something special for their teacher. This can be anything from a simple drawing to a large science project based on information they learned from their teacher. Of course, you will have to make it age specific, so your child won’t feel overwhelmed. You can find a variety of craft ideas for teachers online though, including #1 teacher mugs and shirts.

8. Memory Book
A lot of teachers love to know they have made a difference in their students’ lives. This can be great inspiration for the perfect gift for your teacher. You may want to sit down with your child and have them talk about their favorite memories in class. While chatting, write down the memories so you can have them to reference later on. Once you’ve picked out the memories, write them in a book so your child can share them with their teacher and classroom. You can even have the child illustrate the book or add in pictures that you took during the school year. You can make your book out of simple construction paper or have it professionally bound so your teacher can cherish it for decades to come.

9. Gift Card
If you’re not sure what to do for your teacher this Teacher’s Day, then you can always go with a gift card. You don’t have to put a lot on the card either as most teachers will be surprised to even receive a gift on their special day. Consider grabbing a gift card from a local coffee shop, so your teacher can grab their favorite type of coffee before class begins. You might also consider a gift card from a department store, so they can pick up supplies needed for class or some of their favorite snacks. Another option is for a restaurant, so your teacher can stop and grab lunch on a particularly hard day at school. No matter what you choose to give, it is sure to bring some joy to a teacher who is gearing up to finish off the school year.

10. Bake
Sometimes, budgets don’t always work for sending gifts to school, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give something special on Teacher’s Day. One great option for a gift is to send in some of your homemade baking. You can whip up cookies, cakes, muffins or whatever your specialty is. This is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face, especially during the afternoon when they just want a little to sugar to power through the rest of the day. If you’re feeling ambitious then you might even add on a special message using frosting or decorations. This personal touch is certain to leave your teacher feeling like they’ve experienced the best Teacher’s Day ever.

Celebrating the teachers in your life is incredibly important because they help shape the lives of everyone around us. Thus, this Teacher’s Day, you may want to do something special to show your appreciation for the hard work that they do. After all, most teachers are overlooked, so make sure they feel special on their holiday.

The month of May usually brings brighter spirits with clearer and warmer weather that makes people get out and about. It’s also a time of fun holidays that will make you want to shop until you drop. From Mother’s Day to Memorial Day, you will love seeing the great deals that this month has to offer. Of course, the month of May isn’t exactly perfect when it comes to shopping for all items. In fact, these ten items will drain your budget quickly if you’re not careful. So, if you’re planning on looking for these items this month, you may want to hold off if you want to put your budget ahead of your wants.

1. Flowers
You may see a lot of fresh flowers popping up all over the place during the month of May. Since the supply is up, you might think that shopping for flowers is a wise idea. However, flowers tend to be a bit pricier in the month of May. This is largely because of Mother’s Day, which typically happens in the middle of the month. During this time, you’ll see some of the highest prices that you will see all year. So, you may want to look for an alternative giftwhen it comes to Mother’s Day. You might think that the price would decrease after Mother’s Day is over though, but you probably won’t have any such luck. Most people want to shop for flowers this month because it adds to the Spring season and makes the home feel fresher than ever.

2. Jewelry
Another option you will want to skip out on during May is jewelry. There’s a lot of great sales during this month, but you might find that they’re not as great of a price as you would find on any other occasion. As a matter of fact, you may see some of the highest prices you’ve seen since Valentine’s Day. This is largely because of Mother’s Day when many people want to spend money on new jewelry for their mother. Everything from birthstone jewelry to lockets will be hiked up so jewelers can make their most profit. May also happens to be one of the more popular months to get married, which means wedding bands will be in high demand. Classic wedding jewelry like diamond earrings or pearls will also rise in price due to this.

3. Cameras
Vacation season is practically here, which doesn’t work in your favor if you’re looking to buy a new camera in May. Many people begin to look for a new camera before heading out on their next adventure, so retailers hike up the prices to make a lot more money. The month of May, as stated before, is also a popular season for weddings, which is another occasion that many people want a new camera for. Apart from that, graduation season is upon. So, many proud parents are looking for a new camera to capture every moment of their child walking across stage. They also may be looking for a new camera for a graduation present as many students want to capture college life, their travels and so on. So, with all of this combined, you should probably try to hold off on your new camera. Luckily, you won’t have to wait long though because camera prices make a sudden drop in July.

4. Bikes
Many people love to take to cycling during the Spring and Summer months, especially when the weather is still nice. This will make it pretty hard to find a bicycle at a great price. From cruisers to mountain bikes, you will probably see a huge hike in prices whenever you go shopping in the month of May. If you really need to a grab a bike during this month, or during the summer at all, you may want to check out second hand stores. Thrift stores, yard sales and flea markets may be the best option when it comes to finding a bike, but be careful as you don’t want something you’re going to have to replace before the Summer is over.

5. Sporting Goods
Spring and Summer is a time to be active, which is why a lot of stores will hike up the price of a lot of their athletic gear. With soccer and baseball leagues starting up, you may not be able to find a decent price on cleats, balls, uniforms and more for quite some time. Usually, this period of time is especially bad for sports like soccer, baseball and tennis, so try to shop second hand if you can when it comes to these items. Usually golf, football and indoor sports are safe to buy for, but even some sporting goods stores will hike up the prices on these items too.

6. Grill
Summer time is just right around the corner, which means you may want to spend more time cooking outdoors opposed to indoors. This means you may want to check out a grill to make your meals taste out of this world. The only problem is that grills tend to go up in price during the hot season because everyone wants one. Usually, after Memorial Day hits finding a good price on a grill will be harder than ever. Some stores will even hike up the price of smokers and grill accessories, which will make it even harder to make up your outdoor meals. The price of the grill won’t drop back down until the weather begins to cool down, so you may want to stock up on everything you need then.

7. Boats
With the hot weather rapidly approaching, a lot of people want to find ways to keep cool while enjoying the great outdoors. One of the best ways to do this is to invest in a boat. However, boats tend to skyrocket in price during the month of May and stay high until the winter months. This includes everything from yachts to simple canoes, so if you don’t have a way to enjoy the water yet then you might want to consider a rental. These usually won’t cost you to spend too much money, especially when rental companies want to draw in business before their peak season begins. You should be able to find great clearance deals when the weather cools though, so hold out so you enjoy the summer more when it comes around next year.

8. Above Ground Pool
School is about to take a really long recess, which means you’re going to need to find a way to keep the kids entertained as well as cool. One of the best ways to do this is an above ground pool, which tends to be easy to set up and will allow the kids to have a lot of fun in your own backyard. The only problem is most stores won’t have these items on sale or at a convenient price for some time. During the month of May they tend to just be hitting the shelves, which means you won’t see a price break on them. In fact, they tend not to be reduced until around July. You will also have a hard time finding accessories on sale as many stores won’t even put out pool toys until we near the summer months. Finally, water begins to take a hike in prices because the summer months are approaching and people tend to use more water for pools and gardening.

9. Party Supplies
May is a month of partying which means party supplies will be a little bit higher than normal. During this month, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated so you may want to avoid any decorations that may be inspired by Mexican designs. Another big event happening in May is many schools host their prom. Thus, many students also want to host their own party, which means plastic cups and other supplies will take a price hike. Apart from that, preparations for graduation celebrations usually begin in the month of May too. This means you may not be able to buy banners, eating supplies and any other party accent. Memorial Day brings up the rear of the month, but it also signifies barbecue season so many people host parties then too. With all of the activities, you may want to avoid shopping at party stores all together until June arrives.

10. Gas
Memorial Day sparks the beginning of vacation season and with it brings a price hike in gas prices. During the summer months, gas is in higher demand all over the country because many people want to hit the open road in order to save some money on their vacation. Another cause of this price hike is the switch from winter blend to summer blend, which tends to cost more money altogether. The best way you can avoid this problem is to try to commute on public transportation or come up with a car pool to help you get to work. You can also walk more or ride a bicycle to get around. You will have less of a carbon footprint during this time, which may make you feel better as you save money.

May can be a great time to celebrate the beautiful weather and the multiple sales. However, there are just some items that you just shouldn’t buy during this month. With this guide, you may be able to save some money so you can enjoy the warm weather without having such a tight budget.

When it comes to shopping around for baby gear, most expecting parents tend to turn to local department stores to meet their needs. Of the major department stores, Target and Walmart seem to be the most popular choices. Most new parents need to save as much money as they can for their little ones, thus finding savings are a must. So, you may be wondering which big name retailer will actually save you the most money. After looking at ten of the most popular items parents need for their children, one big retailer stood out in variety and price. Can you guess which one it was?

1. Car Seats
If you have a car then you already know you’re going to need a car seat to make sure your child is safe and secure while you travel. There’s a lot of different options to choose from here so you may have to look hard to find the best possible savings. After looking around at Walmart.com and Target.com you are sure to find a lot of great deals on both websites. However, Walmart is more likely to have lower prices and a wider scope of options. Simply looking at the popular brand Graco, you’ll find that Walmart’s prices are slightly lower than Targets. Of course, if you act fast, Target is offering a 20% coupon on all car seats if you trade in your old one. This is only going on between April 17-30, but Target may bring this offer back in the future.

2. Strollers
In order to get around outside the house or to even get some exercise with your little one, you’re going to want a stroller. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for one that will take on major trails or a simple one that will get you through the mall, as Target and Walmart have a whole lot of options to choose from. One of the best deals found was actually on Walmart. The website offers travel systems, which includes the car seat as well as the stroller for under $100. This will allow your child to grow in the seat, which will get you even more for your money. Walmart also has a larger variety of strollers, some even costing less than $30, if you’re looking for something cheap and simple. Of course, if you want to go high tech, Target has a variety of strollers ranging in the $200s.

3. Cribs
A crib is another must when it comes to your child. When it comes to this Walmart takes the lead again. There are many options on the website that hit just over $100 for a simple crib. Some convertible cribs even stay low in the mid to high $100 range. Another great thing that Walmart offers is bundles that don’t just include the crib, but also the mattress. Of course, if you’re not a fan of the prices then you can always wait, because Walmart offers many rollbacks on their baby supplies. Target also has a wide variety to choose from, but not any of the bundle sets. They also range higher in price, but feature designs based more on aesthetic than Walmart’s options.

4. Gliders
When it comes to gliders Target actually offers the lowest price, but they only have one glider this low. Their other options are more luxurious though and have more padding. The larger variety of their options are more like lounge chairs than gliders so you may want to skip Target if you’re looking for an actual glider. Walmart’s options are only a little more expensive than Target’s cheapest, but they don’t offer the same type of padding. However, many of the gliders have good reviews and will last as long as you need them to.

5. Diapers
Most parents know how bad diapers can impact a budget. So, which retailer offers the cheapest diapers. Actually, big name diapers are pretty much even across the board. You can also take unopened boxes of diapers back to Walmart or Target to exchange for a bigger or smaller size. However, you can only return them if they’re sold at that specific retailer. Of course, Walmart and Target both have their own brand of baby diapers too. Target’s brand actually comes out cheaper than Walmart’s, so you can save a little bit of money there.

6. Baby Food
As with diapers, baby food is also pretty even across the board with both retailers having items only a few cents cheaper than the competition. Both Target and Walmart have their own brand of baby food too, but these prices seem to range with some of the bigger brands like Gerber. Of course, if you plan on making your own baby food Walmart offers cheaper supplies to do so. You can even get produce a little cheaper at Walmart that will help you make healthier options for your child. When it comes to formula, both Target and Walmart have even prices again and offer a wide selection on the website. Each retailer has its own formula as well, but Walmart’s Parent’s Choice is slightly cheaper than Target’s brand.

7. Bottles
Whether you’re breastfeeding or using formula, you will probably want a good price on bottles and their accessories. When it comes to regular bottles, you can get a great deal on them at Walmart. There are multipacks for around $1 if you know where to look. You can also find a whole lot of accessories to make your bottles easier to clean and use. When it comes to bottles designed for breast pumps then Target is probably the way to go. They have a wide assortment to suit your pump and come at a lower price.

8. Breast Pump
Breast pumps can be crucial when it comes to breast feeding your baby. If you’re looking for a manual pump then Walmart is the place to look. They offer a wide variety of options that can suit your personal needs. The manual pumps can be ordered in all sizes there too, so you can even get discreet options for work or travel. You can also find cheaper electrical options at Walmart too. These options include large bundles with accessories from some of the top brand names around. Target, on the other hand, will actually work with your insurance company to get you a great pump though, so you may end up saving even more going this route opposed to buying your own.

9. Toys
Toys are crucial for your child’s development, so you’ll want to keep up with all of your child’s developmental stages. Entertainment stations and mats are one of the best ways to let your child learn and have fun. Walmart offers many cheap options to choose from, but if you’re looking for something more high tech then Target is the way to go. When it comes to swings, Walmart and Target charge about the same on big brands, but Walmart does have a lot of cheaper options. Bouncers are also evenly priced, but Target has more options that are high tech. Both Walmart and Target offer small toys designed for learning for under $5, which is a great way to stock up on lots of supplies for your little one. Both stores offer even prices on high tech options too.

10. Clothes
Children will need lots of clothes, so saving money is a must in this regard. Walmart is one of the cheapest options when it comes to baby clothing. You can find many sleepers for around $1, which will help you stock up for the first year of your child’s life. You can also find lots of clothing bundles at Walmart that will help build your child’s wardrobe for less. Target offers a lot of better quality items for your child, but they are a lot more expensive than what Walmart has to offer. You can also find more popular options like Dr. Seuss, Disney princesses and more at Target.

Saving money for your child is crucial, so finding the best savings possible is a must. When it comes to Walmart vs Target you may want to shop for specific items at each store in order to get the best savings. These ten items are sure to make your life easier, especially now that you know which store will save you the most money on each item.

Graduation is approaching faster than you can imagine, so it might be time to figure out what you’re going to do to celebrate your big accomplishment. There’s a lot of great ways to celebrate, but if you’re on a tight budget you might want to keep your dreams realistic. There’s a lot of frugal ways to have fun though, so don’t feel like your parade has been rained on if you don’t get to do something extravagant. In fact, you may enjoy these ten ideas more than some of the pricier options. So, get excited about your big day because the aftermath is sure to be just as exciting as putting on the cap and gown.

1. Throw a Party
One of the most common options for celebrations is to throw a party. This allows everyone to stop by and celebrate your achievement with you. It’s also a great time to get together with friends, family and classmates to say goodbye before you begin the next chapter of your life. You don’t have to go all out on a party either. In fact, hiring a DJ, renting a venue and other pricey options probably aren’t necessary, depending on the amount of people you invite. Instead, you can host it at your home and make homemade treats for everyone to enjoy. If you do want to splurge on a party then talk to a few of your friends. If you can all go in together on the party costs then it won’t force any of you to spend a bundle on the party. This should keep to your budget and allow you to have the party you want.

2. Pig Out
With graduation comes finals, which means you may not have felt so hot prior to walking across the stage. Often, the stress of exams and the end of the semester financial stress has people eating ramen and other cheap and easy meals. So, to celebrate your big accomplishment pig out. One way to do this is to ask family members to make some of your favorite dishes as a graduation present. You could also pick up a lot of different take out to party in style. If you want to do this with friends then have everyone pick up some take out to help keep the cost down. Then, eat until you can’t anymore. You will feel satisfied in more ways than one.

3. Weekend Getaway
Another way to enjoy your recent achievement is to get away from it all for the weekend. This will give you the proper chance to get rid of the stress that built up before the big moment happened. Weekend getaways are fairly cheap, especially when you don’t go very far. To begin with, you could easily go to a nearby city to check it out for the weekend. You might want to see the sights, hang out downtown or even consider potential schooling or work options there. If the city isn’t your thing then use the time to reconnect with Mother Nature. The weather is usually perfect for camping this time of the year and will give you a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of life for a little while. Best of all, camping doesn’t really cost a lot of money.

4. College Tour
If you just finished up with high school or you plan on going to graduate school, then you may want to celebrate by checking out your future college. This will allow you to get a good layout of where you will be and what you will be able to do. You should check out nearby restaurants, hang outs and activities so you won’t stuck wondering where to go when you arrive on campus. You may want to check our the dormitories or nearby apartments too, just to begin to get a feel of what you will need to take with you when you do arrive on campus. Of course, touring the campus and asking lots of questions is always wise. By the time you finish up with your college tour, you should feel a million times better about the upcoming change in your life. You may even meet a few new friends to help you out when you arrive.

5. Exclusive Dinner Out
Another way to celebrate is to enjoy a fancy restaurant that you normally wouldn’t go to. Of course, you can always stick with your favorite restaurant too, if you prefer that. You might want to pick a few close friends to go along with you, so you can still celebrate in style while keeping the budget low. While you’re there, make sure to have the time of your life, because you may not get to see your friends again for some time. Try to go over memories from your school days, future plans and how you all plan to keep in touch. You will feel a sense of closure by doing this and you might even feel a little bit sophisticated during your time at the restaurant. You can also have this special meal with your family, to allow them to bask in your achievement too. After all, if you’re going away for school or a job then you might not see them for some time too.

6. Buy Something Nice
If you don’t really have the time for a big celebration or you’re just not feeling up to it then you may want to celebrate with some retail therapy. This can go a number of ways. For instance, you may just want to go out and buy a splurge item that you’ve had your eye on for quite some time. You might also want to go and spend some money on new items for your dorm or apartment, to ensure you feel comfortable with your new environment to make your life transition a little easier. Another option is to buy some new clothes for work or job interviews. This should help you get off on the right track, which is a great way to add to your big achievement. No matter what you choose to buy, make sure it makes you happy so you can feel like you’ve celebrated your accomplishment.

7. Take “You” Time
For a while now, you’ve had to bend over backwards for school, which has probably done a toll on your stress levels. Instead of celebrating in huge ways, you may want to set some time away just for you. The next few months will be busy with time spent with your friends and family, preparations for college or a job and so on. So, find the time just to be alone and destress. There’s a lot of great ways to reduce your stress, so make sure you find a method that works for you. Taking the time out to do this will also help you out on your next stage in life because you will know how to find calmness when you’re feeling overwhelmed. If you’re not sure how to destress, try out different methods. This may mean taking lots of ‘you’ time, but you do deserve it after all.

8. Pick Up a New Hobby
Since you won’t have as much work on your hands for a while, it may be time to find a new hobby to help you positively kill time. If you are really into sports already then it might be wise to take on an indoor activity to help boost your creativity or cognitive functions. This could be anything from knitting to crossword puzzles. You may find these activities will help you out when your under lots of stress during exams or while working on deadlines at the office. If you have plenty of creative endeavors then it may be time to try out a sport. You might want to join a team or simply pick up running. This will help keep you healthier, will allow you to get rid of stress and may even make it easier to make some new friends.

9. Road Trip
Sometimes, the best way to celebrate something as big as a graduation is to hit the open road. Gather up some friends that can help pay for gas and expenses and find your own freedom. Road trips are a great way to let yourself find happiness by spending time checking out new regions. You will be surprised by all that you discover on your trip. You may even find places you’d like to vacation to, study at or even live while on your adventure. Of course, you should always make sure to follow a road trip checklist in order to prevent it from costing you too much money. If you’re worried about spending though, you can always keep your road trip close to home or at least stay in the same state.

10. Plan for the Future
This time might be the best time to sit down and think about your future too. The buzz of such an event will probably have you filled with ideas on how your future should go. So, now is the time to sit down and write out all of the plans you’ve come up with. Better yet, you can even begin to map them out so you’ll be on the right path to success. This includes picking the right major and courses to take when in school, as well as where you should internship. The deeper the plans, the more likely you are to complete them, which should make you feel proud. This activity will help you get in the swing of working towards your goals too, because soon all of the classes and activities you do will work towards the future of your dreams.

Graduating is a time to feel proud of yourself, so choosing a great way to celebrate is a must. These ten tips should give you a few ideas that won’t put your rainy day fund in jeopardy. This should allow you to get a better head start in the next stage of your life, so you can feel ready to tackle anything that comes your way.

Prom is coming up faster than you can plan for, which can be a problem when it comes to budgeting for the expensive event. For many teens, prom is the highlight of the year and they want to spare no expense for their happiness. However, sometimes corners have to be cut in order to make the dream prom night come true. One area where you can do this without transforming the evening is with the prom dress. There are ten simple ways you can make the dream dress a reality, without pouring hundreds of dollars into the dress. So, take a deep breath, because these ten tips will help you cut one of the major expenses from your child’s prom experience.

1. DIY
Prom dresses are known to be glamorous, but that doesn’t mean that they’re incredibly difficult to make. If you’re looking to save some money then making your own prom dress can be one of the best ways to do so. You should start on your sewing adventure in the clearance fabric section. You may find amazing fabrics that will make your future prom queen steal the show. You could also wait until there is a good sale or coupon to do your shopping. You should be able to find patterns, tulle, and other fabrics that will make your child happy. The best thing about making the dress with your own two hands is you also get to do the measurements and adjustments whenever you need them. Thus, you won’t have to worry about the dress not fitting. Another perk of having a handmade dress is no one else will have one like yours, which will give you an edge on prom court. You don’t have to go the traditional route either. In fact, many students are making prom dresses out of duct tape. You can even enter to win a scholarship by doing this, which will save you lots of money in the long run.

2. Go Versatile
When picking out a prom dress, you should always keep its versatility in mind. More often than not, children will choose a dress that they only plan to wear once. This can be a problem if you’re on a budget and you want to stretch the money further. Instead of choosing a dress that will only work for prom, keep looking around. You should try to find one that will work for other dances, special occasions, dates or even church. You should also pick one that will last for years, so keep maturity in mind. You should watch the length of the dress as well as the décor in order to make it available for use in future years.

3. Refurbish
Apart from making your own dress, you can put your creative skills to work by refurbishing an old dress to suit your new prom needs. This is great if you have a lot of spares around the house from an older sibling or a different formal event. The dress can be stripped down if you need to make a lot of adjustments, or it can be added to in order to create a whole new look. You don’t have to have incredible sewing skills in order to do this. In fact, if your student is feeling adventurous then it may be a job for her to try on her own. You may need to buy new fabrics or appliques, but that should still keep the price low.

4. Thrift Shopping
If you are looking for a dress on the cheap then you should always consider second hand stores. Thrift stores are one of the best options when it comes down to it because they usually have a great selection of dresses to choose from. Obviously, you can alter the dress once you pick out the perfect one. You can also consider yard sales, flea markets and consignment shops too. Make sure you try on the dress too ensure you like the way it looks and fits, even if you plan on making alterations. This method of shopping will get you out of the store for under $50 and it will allow you to look like a million bucks on the dance floor.

5. Dress Swap
Another great option for your prom dress is to take it from another student. If you have a strong community then you might want to start up a dress swap. In fact, many schools already do a swap, so you might want to ask if this is happening in your area. If not, then it doesn’t take much to organize one in your school or a community area. Basically, dress swaps will allow you to swap out your old dress with another student. This will give you both new dresses to wear to the prom. You may even make a few new friends out of the experience. Better yet, no one will remember that someone else wore the same dress as you, especially since you will look fabulous in your new dress. Some schools will simply have you turn in your old dress in exchange for a voucher. Then, you can search through the other dresses to find one that you look and that fits you.

6. Rent
Believe it or not, but you can actually rent a dress for prom. This is perfect if you’re short on time and money. There are many rental services to choose from, but you should always try to find one that is trustworthy and suits your needs. You might want to look in your own community for a rental service first. This will allow you to try on the dress and see how you feel about it before taking the plunge. If there’s nothing nearby then have no fear. There are lots of online shops that ship quickly and usually pay for return shipping. Make sure you look at reviews for these companies though and check out the size chart before you put in your rental order. This service will allow you to feel confident at the dance while standing out with your unique style.

7. Shop Ahead
One of the best things you can do for your child’s prom attire is to shop ahead of schedule. It is too late to do so for this year, but if you have a student planning on prom next year then you should begin shopping just after this season’s prom is over. This will give you a chance to choose a dress at clearance prices, which can save you hundreds of dollars. Even if you don’t start shopping then, you should shop early enough in the year to beat the prom crowds. This is when prom supplies begin to go up because they are in higher demand. Securing a dress will come in handy anyway as it will ensure your child will be set to go to prom so you will have less saving to do when the time comes.

8. Clearance
Most stores will have a clearance section throughout the year, but there will usually be more dresses added to the mix when prom season comes up. These dresses usually come from last year’s prom fashions, so you won’t be too out of fashion if you choose to shop from this section. Many clearance dresses also have small flaws, so they can be sold for full price. This can work out in your favor because most of the flaws are so tiny that they are very easy to miss unless someone is trying to find something wrong. If the flaw is easy to spot then you can easily try to hide it using accessories.

9. Shop Online
In this day and age, you have a lot of shopping options especially when it comes to prom. Local boutiques can be pricey, so if you can’t find anything you love for a price that is affordable, you might turn to online shopping. Here, you will be able to check out a long list of stores that specialize in prom clothing. Not to mention, you can find prices that aren’t as frightening to your budget. The only problem with shopping online is you might not get the correct size. There are many guides to help you buy clothing online, so make sure you follow some guidance. If you’re still unsure, then make sure you choose a company that offers free returns and shop early enough to exchange the dress if need be.

10. Think out of the box
When it comes to shopping for a prom dress, you don’t have to confine yourself to one specific box. In fact, there’s many areas in which you can shop for the special dress. For instance, you can easily find a stylish dress in other departments to wear. If you see a simple dress that blows you away in your regular department then you can away with wearing it to prom without a problem. You can also check out the clearance section in bridal stores as you may find a bridesmaid dress that suits you. You don’t have to wear a dress just because a store advertises it as a prom dress. In fact, you can even skip the dress part altogether if you want by combining a skirt and top for an irresistible look.

Prom can be stressful when you try to plan out your favorite looks on a budget. However, you can really cut costs when it comes to the dress. So, don’t let the stress of the season get to you yet, because you may find this prom will cost you less than you could have ever imagined.

When it comes to shopping on a budget, a lot of people turn to one dollar store or another to get the items they need. Although the dollar store is a great asset in many communities, there are simply some items that you shouldn’t shop for there. These items can be a hazard to your health in some cases, which is sure to cost you money and grief later on down the line. Other items simply aren’t such a great deal even though they come from a store known for being cheap. So, next time you’re shopping at the dollar store, remember you should check out these items elsewhere.

1. Batteries
Batteries tend to be a bit pricey when you buy them from any store. So, seeing batteries for a dollar can be a bit tempting to most shoppers. The only problem is, the batteries you buy from a dollar store only harness a fraction of the charge that you would get from batteries elsewhere. This means you will have to buy these batteries several times in order to get the same amount of power, which doesn’t save you money in the long run. When it comes to batteries, your best bet is to actually buy them from a bulk store. This will allow you to get more for your money, and will ensure you can mark this item off of your shopping list for quite some time.

2. Food
Another poor item to buy at the dollar store is food. There’s a couple of reasons why you should not do this. First of all, some of the items sold are actually placed in smaller containers. So, by the time you have bought enough to equal the amount you would get in one container at another store, you have already spent more money than you should on the item. Other items are overpriced at a dollar when you can buy them for much less in grocery stores. Finally, some of the packaging, like cans, may leak chemicals into your food because they are made with cheap materials.

3. Pet Food
If you shouldn’t buy your own food from the dollar store, then you shouldn’t buy your pet food either. This is for many of the same reasons. To begin with, the packaging is smaller and you won’t actually get your money’s worth out of the deal. The dollar store also tends to carry cheap brands, which can cause many health issues for your pet. For instance, some cheap cat foods are known to cause fatty liver disease, which can cost your pet his or her life. Some of the items are made with questionable ingredients too, which could cause your pet to grow sick or not get the proper nutrition they need.

4. Vitamins
Vitamins at the dollar store may seem like a good deal too. That is, if you want minimal coverage. These vitamins are still good for you, but they aren’t as good for you as vitamins that you would buy elsewhere. For instance, some lack the basic ingredients that other vitamins have, which can be crucial to overall health. Other vitamins will use different absorptions, which can cause you to get less from the vitamins you take. So, you might as well take your money and invest in something that will help benefit your body. You’ll not only be healthier, but you will also have more product.

5. Jewelry
A lot of little girls love to shop for jewelry at the dollar store. There are even some cute adult styles that might seem tempting. However, you may want to rethink your initial attraction to the item. Jewelry is one of the top items sold at dollar stores that are known to be made of toxic materials. Not all items have toxins in them, but when it comes to your health and your child’s you probably shouldn’t take the risk. Most department stores will have better quality and safer jewelry for a little more money. You could also check out thrift stores for jewelry, which will cost you around the same price as the hazardous dollar store items.

6. Dishes
The dollar store has a lot of cute options when it comes to dishes. The only problem is, they sell them all separately. This can add up, especially if you have a big family and want to get the full place setting. By the time you’ve purchased enough for everyone you will pay almost double what you would for an actual full set of dishes that you can buy elsewhere. Silverware is also a poor buy from the dollar store. Generally, these items end up rusting or bending before you’ve gotten your money’s worth. So, try to shop for these items elsewhere, unless you’re just shopping for one.

7. Toiletries
Shopping for toiletries at the dollar store can lead you to a lot of trouble down the line. Generally, the toilet paper won’t leave you satisfied and you will use so much of it that you will need to buy more before you plan on shopping again. You’re better off buying a brand that you know will be soft and will get the job done. Sanitary napkins are another skip it at the dollar store. Usually, these items aren’t as large as they could be and they lack deodorizer. This can leave you feeling less than confident and may even cause you to have a leak. Other items like soap and toothpaste tend to come in smaller containers or are of less quality than you would find at other stores. If you do find something worth buying it tends to be from overstock and won’t be back in the store once it is sold out.

8. Electronics and Accessories
You may be surprised when you see electronics in the dollar store. If you’ve ever bought one of these items, then you know it isn’t going to keep for very long. So, you might want to save your money and invest in a slightly better product at another store. Usually, dollar stores will have items like headphones on sale, which tend to quickly lose their sound or break. You might find phone cases, protective covers and more at the dollar store too. These items shouldn’t be as trusted as items that you would buy elsewhere. One of the worst items to pick up is chargers, because they tend to not do the job after only a few uses.

9. Makeup
If you love to look your best, then buying makeup from the dollar store isn’t going to suit your needs. Usually, the products sold are very cheap and won’t offer the coverage you hope for. For many of the brands, you will find that they wear off before the day is over. They also tend to not follow the same color scheme as other products, which may leave you with a foundation that makes your skin tone look a little off. Other higher quality products are sold in smaller containers, which will leave you spending more than you would for a regular sized item. Of course, these items might be fun for children to play with, but make sure you research to ensure they aren’t made with harsh items.

10. Toys
Last but not least are the items that are hardest to resist if you go in the store with a child. Most dollar store toys aren’t worth the small amount of money you pay for them. Many of these items come from countries that utilize child workers. If they don’t come from this travesty, then there is a good chance that they are made with toxic materials which can make your child very ill. Apart from the way the item is made, you can pretty much bank that it won’t be durable enough to last for more than a few weeks. With this lifespan, you might as well spend the money to buy the name brand item that can last for years. Since the toys are so apt to break they may even cause an injury which will not only harm your child, but will also have you spending money on medical bills. So, play it safe when you shop and skip the dollar store toy for your kids. They may not like it, but you’ll be able to keep your peace of mind.

The dollar store can be a great way to stretch your budget further, but there truly are some items that are a trap. These ten items should be avoided when you shop there, so you won’t waste your money or harm your body. Although it does take out many items you typically shop for, there’s still plenty of items that will save you money sold at the dollar store.

Many new parents struggle with the concept of where to put their sleeping baby. With a lot of new emphasis on SIDS and a new parent budget, you may find it harder than ever to choose which sleep method is for you. Often enough, you may also have a hard time choosing based solely on price. Luckily, there’s a few options that won’t leave you high and dry when it comes to your budget. These ten tip sleep methods will not only meet your personal needs, but will give you a chance to spend your money wisely. This should be one step in the right direction when it comes to early parenthood.

1. Convertible Crib
When it comes to long term savings, a convertible crib is the way to go. This crib can be purchased in a few different ways, but if you shop well enough you should get one that offers more than two transformations. A decent convertible crib will work for infant stages, older babies, toddler and childhood. Best of all, the price tag of this crib isn’t a lot more than what you would pay for a regular crib. So, by choosing this you’ll have your child set up through childhood without any second thought on your end. There’s a lot of fashionable convertible cribs too and some even come with changing tables. This will add even more appeal to the crib and will save you a lot more money.

2. Baby Box
The Baby Box started in Finland nearly a century ago and is now taking the world by storm. It may seem odd, but this safe sleep space literally is a carboard box with a mattress in it. Despite its simplicity, it has helped cut the infant mortality rate down substantially in Finland. This box isn’t just a sleep space though. If you order one from a store you’re sure to be surprised by all of the great things inside. You can order an exact replica of the box Finnish mothers receive, but this can be pretty pricey. However, Baby Box companies are popping up now. One such company, the Baby Box Company, will even give you discounts for liking them on social media. You also get a free gift from the company by sending in a photo of your child using the box. Some states are giving out the box free to new mothers now, so this may be one of the cheapest sleep options you have.

3. Co-Sleeper
If you can’t bear the thought of your child being too far away, but you also don’t want them in the bed with you, then a co-sleeper is a great option. This convenient bed comes in two different options. One option is actually attached to one side of the bed, so it becomes a permanent fixture. The other can be moved towards and away from the bed as you please. These sleepers help prevent you from rolling onto the baby or having your linens suffocate the baby, so they’re worth the price tag if you want your baby close by. These sleepers are also said to make breast feeding a breeze. With a little shopping around, you should be able to find a cheap co-sleeper for less than $50, but some variations of the bed will charge a whole lot more.

4. Cradle
Some parents like to keep things classic by adding a cradle to their baby registry. A cradle is another great option for babies that can help take some of your worries away. Like a box, the cradle is small so baby won’t be able to roll around much. It also comes with a special leg that will allow you to rock your baby whenever you’re putting them down for a nap. Cradles won’t cost you a lot of money either, but they won’t last long in your household. Usually, when babies get older you move them from the cradle to a larger bed, so keep that in mind when you’re making your sleep investment.

5. Bassinet
Like the cradle, the bassinet is a small alternative that will help prevent your child from rolling around in the sleep space. This item isn’t a rocker though, so it is used primarily for comfort instead of soothing. The bassinet comes in handy for many reasons though. For starters, it is small so you can move it from room to room as you please. This is great for parents who spend a lot of time doing chores in one area of the house and for those who would prefer the baby sleep in the same room as them. The bassinet usually comes with a covering too, which will keep pesky cold breezes off your bundle of joy.

6. Swing
Many people shop for a swing to keep baby entertained, but it can also become a great sleep option for your child. Swings force your child to stay at an incline, so the risk of choking drops significantly. The soothing motion of the rocking and possibly vibrating can make it a lot easier to get your child to nap too. Best of all, you can use the swing to keep your child entertained and sleepy without them even realizing. Since you’re most likely getting a swing for your bundle of joy anyway, this makes it one of the most frugal sleep options around. You should check out reviews before you make any purchases though, because you don’t want to end up with an unsafe dud that no one likes.

7. Pack N Play
If you’re looking for a particularly cheap option for your child, then a pack N play may be your best bet. This amazing play place is the perfect sleep area for your child as long as you make sure you clear it of choking hazards, blankets and pillows before you lay your child down in it. Many pack N plays today also come with a changing table, so you’ll be set for the day. These items are also very simple to move from one room to another, so you can always keep an eye on your little one. They especially come in handy when children learn to move around as they become a safe play place when parents are working on cleaning up the house and can’t keep their full attention on the child. Apart from allowing your child to sleep and play safely, the pack n play can be folded up and transported whenever you visit family or friends during naptime or bedtime.

8. Basket
A basket is very similar to the Baby Box concept. It creates a small space for very young babies to sleep comfortably. However, the basket won’t last as long as the box will. So, if you are worried about your newborns sleeping then consider a basket as they are small and easy to transport from one place to another. Make sure you use a waterproof sheet in the basket though to help keep your baby safe while sleeping. Baskets also make great photography props, so you may want to keep yours for this purpose too. When the baby outgrows the basket then use it to store clothes or other supplies you need for your little one. This will help you get more for your money.

9. Baby Hammock
One new trend going around is the baby hammock. This takes the same principle as the Baby Box, but offers it in a more modern way. The baby hammock does require a crib to be used though, so keep this in mind when you’re searching for one. The idea of the hammock is to help prevent SIDS too. It lifts young babies off of the mattress and gives them their own personal space to snooze. However, this space is very small and waterproof, so baby will be set for anything the night brings. The hammock only lasts a few months, but it will be worth every penny if you’re looking for a safe sleep spot for your bundle of joy.

10. Your Bed
Sharing a bed with your child is highly looked down upon in this day and age because it is one of the highest contributing factors to SIDS. However, if you take safety precautions then sharing a bed can save you more money than you’d expect. For starters, you should try to remove all excess blankets and pillows from the bed. You’ll want to have more space for the baby and less items that could suffocate. Once there, try to map out a space just for the baby. If you have a big bed, then this should be no problem. Try to make it to where you can’t roll over on your child. Many mothers end up sleeping lightly with a child in the bed, which could also help you when It comes listening for the safety of your child. Sharing a bed tends to last a couple of years too, so you won’t have to worry about spending any time soon.

Making sure your baby has a safe place to sleep is one of the hardest things for new parents. From waking up to every single sound the baby makes to dreading the day they roll over, you will be able to rest a bit easier with then ten methods working for you. So, let your body relax and get some sleep, because these options are sure to have you both sound asleep.

The rainy months are about to begin, which is great for the new flowers and plants budding, but isn’t always as great for your home and property. From flooding and leaking to mildew and rain damage, you’re sure to have a lot on your plate due to the April showers. Luckily, there’s a few ways you can handle the damage that may prevent the high prices of a professional coming in to fix the problem. So, try not to stress when the rain brings damage, because it may not be a complete budgetary crisis if you act fast and follow these ten tips.

1. Dry it Out
One of the first things you can do to combat water damage of any kind is to let it dry out. This means opening the windows as soon as you possibly can, even if it is cold outside. The air will take care of the problem more than you could think possible. Of course, if natural air isn’t possible then you can always use a fan. This backup process will help dry things even faster, even if you can’t open up a window. For substantial problems, you may want to rent a shop fan to help push even more air onto the water damage. If there is a lot of water in the area, then it may come down to using a sump vac to clear the area before you begin the drying process.

2. Remove Wet Items
A lot of the time people will leave wet items where they are in hopes that they will just dry out on their own. This can be one of the main causes of damage and will ruin more than just the item that is wet. If there is a major leak, then try to move out affected furniture and rugs as soon as possible so that the flooring beneath the items is completely clear. This will allow you to work faster to clean up the mess on your flooring and walls, which will help reduce permanent damage. It also will allow your furniture and rugs to begin the drying off process, which is definitely helpful. With these items away from affected areas they can dry completely, which will also cut back on the amount of damage you have to deal with.

3. Invest in Dehumidifier
One of the best ways to prevent water damage from happening in any circumstance is to invest in a dehumidifier. This is even a great item to have around your washer and dryer to prevent damage to your machines due to the constant humidity. A dehumidifier, will do just as its name suggests. That is, knock out humidity. This will help keep your wallpaper going strong, while also getting rid of the moisture caused by leaks and so much more. A dehumidifier isn’t on the expensive side either, so you should be able to keep your budget in order when you buy one. Best of all, this item will quickly become a favorite in the summer months when the humidity is too much to bear.

4. Change the Paneling/Dry Wall
When it comes to water damage on your wall, one of the best things you can do is act fast and get rid of the damage. Luckily, fixing a wall doesn’t have to be a professional job, nor does it have to cost a small fortune. If you have paneling on your wall, then simply take off the damaged panels and assess if the wall is also damaged. If not, you’re good just to replace the paneling. Fixing the wall will be a bit more work though, but not as much as you think. All you have to do is work to cut around all of the damage. Then, you take fresh dry wall and plaster it into the wall. There’s a bunch of tutorials on how to accomplish this, so you won’t be entirely on your own. You can even get step by step videos for free, so don’t stress out over the task! Getting out the damaged wall is important, because it can help you avoid mold in the home.

5. Utilize Freezer
One of the biggest causalities to water damage is paper products. Most of the time, people count their losses when it comes to water hitting items like books or paper records. However, there is a quick fix that can keep your paper products looking good. That is, you simply toss them in the freezer. Of course, this only works if you have a no frost freezer as any freezer that causes frost will only add to the damage of the books. A no frost freezer will stop the water in its tracks though, so it can’t do any further damage.

6. Clear Carpet
Carpet is one of the main things that takes the brunt of water damage. Even though you dry carpet, sometimes it can retain the damage caused by the water. For starters, you will need to clean the carpet just to get rid of the bacteria from the leaked water. You won’t want your children playing around on water that leaked through the roof and into the home because there is no clue what it picked up along the way. Of course, before you can steam clean you may need to get a wet/dry vacuum to take care of the mess. This will help get rid of the majority of the problem. Of course, once everything is dried and cleaned, you will have to worry about what is under the carpet. This can be as simple as lifting it, cleaning underneath it and then securing it again. If mold has developed, you can usually clean it up with bleach or vinegar.

7. Tackle Electronics
Of course, when it comes down to it, electronics can be one of the scariest things to deal with when it comes to water damage. Most of the time, you won’t be able to tell if they are completely lost or if there is some way to restore them to a functional status. The first step you should take if you notice water has gotten onto your item is to turn it completely off and unplug it. This should help prevent electronic damage, if the item hasn’t already had it. Once you do this, begin the cleaning process as quickly as you can. Make sure to dry everything off on the exterior of the device. If you can, open up the device and gently try to get rid of the water there too. You may want to use a blow dryer for this. Sticking smaller items in a bag of rice is also said to help. Once everything is dry, leave it alone to dry for a couple of days. If you can power it on then, then it may not be necessary to seek a professional.

8. Clean
Many people overlook the fact that any leak at all requires extensive cleaning on their part. It doesn’t matter if the water damage is just on the exterior of the home or if a small portion of rain water managed to seep through the base of the floor and onto the carpet. Any water contamination will need a thorough cleaning to prevent mold and mildew from popping up in your home. These problems can bring horrible smells into the home, which will leave you wishing you would have fixed the problem days prior. Mold can also be pesky and will leave you working hard to get rid of it before it causes a problem with your family’s breathing and overall health.

9. Get to the Bottom of the Leak
When you notice there’s a leak in your home, one of the first things you should do is find out where the leak is coming from. More often than not, you can’t see where the leak has started straight away. This can lead to even more damage, which may cause you to have to bring out the professionals. You might want to turn off the water, if you believe it to be a pipe, then look around for where the damage begins. If you think the weather is the root of the problem, then wait out the storm then look for where the damage begins. By doing this, you can patch any holes and so on, which will prevent the damage from progressing and prevent it from occurring again. Finding damage at the source is also a good way to avoid rotting, molding and so much more, which can make your life a nightmare.

10. Prevention
The best possible way to fix water damage is actually to never let it happen in the first place. Of course, this is much easier said than done. However, there are several things you can do to make sure your home doesn’t have to deal with water damage. The first is to routinely check your roof. Look for loose shingles and damage that might cause a leak in your home. You should also clean the gutters often, especially when you know there is going to be lots of rain and debris in your area. Monitoring the attic and basement is also pretty important in the scheme of things as any water damage will likely form there first. By doing regular maintenance on the interior and exterior of the home, you should find yourself dealing with less problems.

No one wants to put up with water damage, especially during the rainy season. These ten tips should help your home stay dry, so you can save a bundle of money. Before long, water damage may not even cross your mind, because you’ll have handled it all so well.